Historical Newspapers of South Carolina

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lite farfeville (Shuptim. j YORKVILLE, S. C. ^ , WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1886. ?r* MEXICAN PENSIONS. /The bill to pension the veterans of the Mexican war?1S46 to 1848?was passed last Monday by the United States Senate. It had already passed the House of Representativac onma mnntho o nrn a nrt nnw ornPS tn IMHITW UU1UV UlVUVUtJ i%bV) ??uv? *IV If ^jwww ?v the President for his signature. As it is a general law, and not a special one, Mr. Cleveland will hardly exercise the veto in this case. It gives these soldiers, and their * widows who have not married, eight dollars per month as long as they live. SWORN 'lN. 7 Governor Thompson having accepted the appointment of Assistant Secretary of the United States Treasury, which nomination was confirmed by the United States Senate on Friday, the Governor formally resigned his office at noon on Saturday last, turning it over to Lieutenant Governor Sheppard, who was immediately sworn in, Chief Justice Simpson administering the oath. Governor Thompson proceeded to Washington Saturday night, and on last Monday morning qualified as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, entering at once upon the duties of the office. THE CONGRESSIONAL RACE. The Fourth of July was celebrated at Cheraw on Monday of last week, and after the close of the patriotic exercises, a politi??1 n?no Lolrl of ninrhf in whlf'lu UVl UlCCblli^ UUO JIV/iU UV uigiiv At* ?l tt.vat Congressman Hemphill, Gen. Law and others spoke. A correspondent of the 1Veins and Courier writes as follows of the discussion : Gen. E. M. Law, of York, an aspirant for Congress from this district, first spoke. He took issue with Congressman Hemphill on the silver question, and discussed at some length the advantage to the Southern people of free and unlimited coinage. Mr. Hemphill replied, explaining very clearly his position in this ana other matters. Gen. Law replied. The silver topic occupied the entire meeting, and, judging from the result of last night's meeting, the fight in this district is to be on that issue. . ? - ? ? GENERAL JOHN BRATTON. [From the Wiunsboro News and Herald.] In several papers of the State General John Bratton has been suggested as a suitable man to receive the Democratic nomination for Governor of Sonth Carolina. In this connection a few words about the public career of the man whom it is thus proposed to honor may not be out of place. After a career in the Confederate army, which was conspicious for bravery, fidelity and efficiency, General Bratton returned home, to take his part in the endeavor to restore the State, in some degree, to the prosperity which had preceded the wreck and ruin of the war. In 1865 he was sent to the State Senate from Fairfield, without opposition. Brief as was the opportunity thus afforded?soon as did the Federal soldier with his bayonet take possession of the government of South Carolina?General Bratton impressed his colleagues and his constituency with his fitness for his trust. In the trying period from the enforcement of the Reconstruction measures to the political revolution of 1876, General Bratton was always at the service of his people, in whateyer capacity he might do aught that nrnmised relief from the burden of misrule. robbery and outrage that made South Carolina as conspicuous for the infamies done in her name as she had once been for the greatness of her leaders and the purity of her government. In the movement resulting in the assembling of the Taxpayers' Conventions, he lost no opportunity to further the success of our oppressed citizenship, who saw in the Tax Unions the only means of slowly dragging themselves out of the conditiou in which the Radical party had placed them. For services rendered in times such as our people experienced from 18G8 to 187G there could be neither reward nor the hope of reward, save in the consciousness of duty done under very trying circumstances. Patriotism was here subjected to its highest test, without the incentives which make ambitious men patriotic. The men who were true to the State in those times could expect neither public honors nor popular plaudits. Silent gratitude, even, seemed sometimes wanting. The men who, like John Bratton, served South Carolina then, served her for Carolina's sake?not for their own irain. It is easy to understand that in the disorganized state in which the white people found themselves in 187G, after every expedient had failed to bring relief from the evils that beset them, the reorganization of the Democratic party was a difficult task. The work ofc enlisting the good people of Fairfield in % contest that promised little else than difficulty, danger and defeat, was no easy one. That duty was assigned to John Bratton. The fruit of his labors? ably assisted at all times by the County Executive Committee and backed at last by the good people of Fairfield?was seen in v perhaps the most effective political organization that has ever existed in South Carolina. That organization was built up on a sentiment?that sentiment which makes "duty the sublimest word in the English language," and which could only be called forth by one in whose sense of duty, whose fidelity to them, the people had the fullest trust. In the campaign of 187G General Bratton was likewise a member of the State Executive Committee?where his character and ability were recognized by those upon whom devolved the duty of conducting a political contest, the like of which was never known in this country. In 1880, General Bratton was called to the chairmanship of the State Executive Committee, to take charge of a campaign which promised to be a troublesome one. It was conceived that there was some grounds i to apprehend a break in the front which I our people had lately presented to the ene- j my, ana that John Bratton was the man to j avoid the breach if possible and heal it if! made. The success of that campaign, and j " the support he had from all the Democracy j of the State showed that those who had called him to the post knew the man they ; had chosen. In December, 18SU, General Bratton was, without any solicitation on his part, elected by the Legislature to the important post of Comptroller General of the State. It is needless to say that he filled that ottice in a manner altogether creditable. In 1884, General Bratton was suggested by good men in various parts of the State for the office of Governor. The State Convention passed no judgment on his merits. a third man was. bv a maioritvof the dele gates, thought to be desirable, and the choice was so made. In 1S84, the vacancy in the representation of the Fourth District, occasioned by the death of the lamented Evins, was filled by | the nomination and election of General . Bratton for the unexpired term. We have it from those who know, that he was long enough in Washington to impress himself there as one of the soundest and strongest men that have represented South Carolina in the councils of the nation. General Bratton's record, in all the places to which the confidence of his people has called him from the quiet labors of his farm here in Fairfield, is that of a man who has ; known no rule of conduct but that which comes of sound judgment, keen sense of duty, and an absolutely unselfish devotion to the people who have trusted him. Never an office-seeker, he has held office only at the call of the people. Nothing of a politician, he has engaged in politics by way of service to his people. The present situation in this State is not J without difficulties?we might say not with-' I out dangers. To lead the people out of these I troubles, to avert these dangers, there is no | fitter or better man in all South Carolina than John Bratton, of Fairfield. CONDITION' OF THK CHOPS. south carolina. The State Department of Agriculture has ; received 18S reports on the condition of the crops of average date of July 1st, and furnishes the following summary of these returns for publication: Cotton.?The June 1st reports to the Department of Agriculture showed that the Spring opened late and heavy rains followed planting. The nights were cool and the ground damp, preventing the early germination of seed. The rains during the past month have been almost unprecedented, producing a vigorous growth of grass, which retarded the development of the cotton plant. The stands were injured in removing the grass. On account of the excessive rains the crop could not be properly worked. A large part of the crop on bottom lands has been washed away by the floods. In some sections small patches planted by tenants have been abandoned. Damage to the crop by rust, shedding and lice is reported by several correspondents. In localities the plant is said to be turning yellow and dying from the effect of excessive rains and supposed exhaustion of fertilizers. Some of the correspondents report that where the crop has been well worked it is looking well, with prospects of a fair average crop, but the great majority of the reports are Unfavorable. The condition is reported in Upper Carolina at 73, Middle Carolina 7G and Lower Carolina 85. Average for the State 78, against 5K5 at the'same time last year. This is lower than any report made by the National Department of Agriculture on the condition of the crop at the same time in the past seventeen years. Coux.?'The correspondents estimate that 30 per cent, of the entire corn crop of the State is planted on bottom lands and fully three-fourths of this part of the crop was destroyed by floods in May, replanted over again and destroyed in June. In some sections corn has been planted and destroyed four times on these lands. The upland corn is reported in fine condition with prospect of a full average yield. The con clition of the entire crop, including that portion not destroyed on bottoms, and that replanted, is reported at 71 in Upper Carolina, So in Middle Carolina and 91 in Lower Carolina ; an average for the State of S2. Other Crops.?The condition of the smaller crops is reported as follows: Sugar, 91; sugar cane, 92; sweet potatoes, 9(J; Irish' potatoes, 94, and garden products, 99. / national, crop report. Crop reports to the Department of Agriculture at Washington for July 1st, represent cotton 10 or 15 days late, low grounds saturated with the excessive rains of June, the general prevalence of aphis in such situations, and the smothering of the growth by grass and weeds. The drier uplands show a vigorous plant growth, and in full-handed plantations clear cultivation. This description will apply to all States except Texas, Arkansas and Tennessee. There has been an improvement during Junein theseStates, i*-* oil Athnrc Thorn will hp auu lCllUgiauc iu an V(.nvt?? Jkiivtv <> ? a small area abandoned from inability to cultivate it, and some injury to plants will result in the process of clearing. The reduction in the condition is mainly in North and South Carolina, Alabama and Mississippi. Georgia was reported low in June. The several averages of the condition are 8G. It was88 on the first of June last year, and it was 9G in July, a gain of four points during June. Favorable weather in July with prompt destruction of weeds may advance the condition, but further rains or long continued drought would work serious injury to the crop. While a fair product may yet be possible east of the Mississippi the condition of that portion of the crop may be considered somewhat critical. The averages by States are as follows: Virginia 92, North Carolina 91, South Carolina 7G, Georgia 81, Alabama 80, Mississippi 79, Louisiana 84, Texas 97, Arkansas 92, and Tennessee 98. Corn.?The acreage of corn has very slightly declined in the Middle States, and Maryland, Virginia and South Carolina, with some increase in other States in the South, which is the largest west of the Mississippi. In the Ohio Valley the acreage is nearly the same as 1885. West of the Mississippi the increase is heavy. In Kansas twenty per cent., Nebraska 10, and Dakota 30. The total increase is 3? per cent., or about two and a half million acres. Corn is late on the Atlantic coast from wet weather, cool nights and slow germination. In many situations the seed rotted, and replanting became necessary. Instances are reported of planting three times. Yet there is generally a fair stand. The crop is growing and healthy, and with seasonable July weather will make a full yield. It has suffered quite as much on the Gulf Coast, where the wet areas are still more unpromising. The red lands generally bear a vigorous growth while in gray soil and bottoms, the plants are yellowing and spindling. Some of the areas have already been abandoned. Some parts of Texas have been dry, but abundant recent rains will suffice for a good crop in the eastern and central counties. Arxansas snows a higher condition, but Tennessee reports injury from low temperature and excessive rains. The great corn belt of the West reports medium to high condition, growing better from Ohio to Kansas.- The Missouri Valley averages better than the Ohio River and Lake region. There is a full stand in Missouri of vigorous and even growth, and ten days earlier than last year. Kansas returns are equally favorable. Insect in- , juries have nowhere been serious. The / chinch bug is now threatening some localities in the West. The general average is 9G, against 94 last year, and 9G in 1SS4. The State averages of the following States are: New York 92, Pennsylvania 88, Virginia 9.3, Georgia 92, Texas S2, Kentucky 91, Ohio 93, Indiana 90, Michigan 90, Illinois 97, Missouri 101, Kansas 102, Nebraska 95, and Iowa 99. Wheat.?The condition of winter wheat is reported for the first of July in the Northern districts not harvested, and in the Southern States as it appeared at the time of harvest. The average has declined from 92.7 to 91.2. New York reports a decline of 4 points, Pennsylvania 5, Kentucky 2, Michigan G, Missouri 1, Kansas 3. Ohio and Indiana remain as in June, and Illinois gains 1 point. The condition of spring wheathas declined from 98 in June to 93, in consequence of high temperature, drying winds and lack of rain. In the principal States the decline has been : Wisconsin, from 97 to 75; Minnesota, 99 to 78; Iowa, 100 to 90; Nebraska, 97 to 83, and Dakota, from 99 to 85. the cotton kelt. The National Crop Exchange report for the month of June, compiled by C. H. Parker, Secretary, New Orleans, and published last Saturday, says: The meteorological report of June over the cotton belt is in striking contrast with the corresponding period of last year. The conditions have been abnormal over pretty nearly all the area east of the Mississippi. Within these limits, embracing about twothirds of the entire area under cotton, the rainfall has been excessive, the temperature unfavorable and farm work has been retarded, and over extensive districts almost entirely suspended for all practical purposes, causing grass to grow luxuriantly and rendering necessary the abandonment of some lands in these States, embracing the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. rIMin 1or?<rl^ noff innlorUr lia trn enffni*. X liV/ lCi.LIV.tOf J'tU livnuu I J , i>u > V OUUVl- I ed severely, and fertile black lands have lost much of the prospect they had. Over most of these States the early spring was cold and unfavorable. May conditions were not good, and June has again lowered them a little and rendered the outcome more critical still. Over this area, embracing, as it does, so large a percentage of upland, with favorable condition in July and subsequently?that is, seasonable showers, allowing farm work in cleaning out grass, and the absence of hot dry weather to bake the saturated soil and scorch the plants which have been rendered unhealthy by the extreme moisture?there is room for improvement. It is to be noted that the insect ravages, usually accompanying these meteorological conditions, have been slight, and the stands, which were not very good to start on, have not been impaired on that account. Over all this district the crop is late, and, therefore, exposed to the vicissitudes of the fall season. In the northern portion of the belt, however, Tennessee had a good start, and lias held her own pretty well, and North Carolina is better than the coast district below her. Going west of the Mississippi, the situation is reversed. Over the great State of Texas, in Arkansas and in Louisiana, the rains of June found the plant well rooted, and the fields in excellent cultivation. These prospects have very much improved, and in Texas particularly the condition has been very favorable and her rating is nearly at par. Following is the condition by States: Virginia, &e., 110; North Carolina, 79; South Carolina, 75; Georgia, 78; Florida, 91; Alabama, 75; Tennessee, 87; Arkansas, 80; Mississippi, 82; Louisiana, 80; Texas, 98. Average for the belt 33i against 92 last year, and 35 the year before. Correspondence of the Yorkville Enquirer. LETTER FROM CHESTER. Chester, July 12.?Sherman Riester, colored, perpetrated a fiendish act near this place on last Wednesday morning. A short time before daylight he caught the only mule of Green Johnson, colored, tied it to a tree and taking an axe struck it several hlnifs nn thn limifl and killpd it. He was arrested by Sheriff ilood, brought to town, and after a preliminary examination before Trial Justice Leekie was taken to jail to await his trial at the next term of the Circuit Court. lie virtually admitted his guilt to the Sheriff in offering to settle the matter by paying for the mule. Sherman Riester is a young fellow born since the war and named after prominent Republicans, one of a national reputation and the other of a local notoriety in the palmy days of Radicalism. A confinement of ten years in the Penitentiary would hardly atone for the great outrage he has perpetrated. A runaway, attended with a remarkable termination, occurred on last Tuesday afternoon. ]\Ir. John Dunnovant, while playing ball at the Fair Grounds, left his buggy and horse in charge of a colored boy. The horse for some reason was frightened, and becoming unmanageble, broke off in a run which he continued until stopped in front of the Cotton Hotel, keeping the pavement all the time. Strange to say the buggy was not turned over until just before the horse was stopped, and stranger still no man, woman or child was run over and hurt. The horse suffered no injury, but the buggy was badly broken. . A new mail route in this county from Lowrysville to Osborne's Mill has recently been established. The postoffices along the route are?one called Olive, formerly known as Sanders' store, and the other called Cabal, at-Osborne's Mill. /Mr. J. P. Itagsdale, of Rossville Township, and Mr. Craig Kirkpatrick, of the Wilksburg section,, have been announced as candidates for the office of County Commissioners. W. A. Sanders Esq., is a candidate for re-election to the office of Probate Judge. "Many Friends," have not yet favored us with the name of any aspirant to Legislative honors. Chester is behind some other inounties in this particular. An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Xeely, of Lewis' Turn Out, in this county, departed this life on last Thursday. The friends of the bereaved parents deeply sympathize with them in their affliction. Public sentiment is divided here as to the mode of nominating our Congressional and State ticket. Senator Patterson favors the primary plan. He thinks that as one Congressional District has already decided to adopt this plan, the State Convention will be forced to yield to this decision, and flier, rrront- Hio tamp ritrhf-. tn flthpr Districts. if they choose to exercise it. In his opinion a different course on the part of the Convention might be attended with great injury to the Democratic party. He thinks that a majority of the delegates in the State Convention will favor a continuance of the convention plan for the nomination of Congressmen and State officers. There is little doubt of the fact that Senator Patterson will be his own successor in the Senate. He has discharged with ability and satisfaction to his constituents the duties of his high and honorable position, and will be returned in all probability without opposition. I am glad to report an improvement in the condition of the crops during the past week. Farmers are more hopeful than they were a few days ago. A protracted meeting was held at the Baptist Church last week, and is still continued. M. Correspondence of the Yorkville Enquirer. LETTER FROM ROCK HILL. llocK Hill, July 12.?The society of our town has been enlivened for the past week by a number of visiting young ladies. The young men of the place will give a hop at Roddey's Hall on Friday night, complimentary to them. Our boys were again disappointed on Friday afternoon at not having an opportunity to meet the Yorkviile Base Ball Club on the diamond field. Yorkviile need not be afraid to play our boys. They are all boys o.i/i ovnfidf to ho flofontorl hnf. aro anxious to meet their Yorkville friends. Mr. George A. Cowan, who has ten acres in tobacco a mile from this place informs me that his crop is looking as well as could be expected, considering the wet weather, and he is very much pleased with tobacco raising. He thinks that with proper care and attention he will make a good crop. The quarterly conference of Hock Hill circuit, M. E. Church, was held at Cross Roads Church on Saturday and Sunday last. The presiding elder, Rev. A. J. Cauthen, was present. Rev. Edmund N. Joyner, of this place, has been quite sick for the past week, and I regret to learn that he is not improving as fast as his many friends desire. VThere are at the present time more grass > n..i. hill 11.. ;n IIMTaef wiuowers 111 i\.UL*K run, in mcou End," than was ever before known. Mrs. J. J. Hull and family are at Lancaster; Mrs. I)r. T. A. Crawford and family and Mrs. F. II. London and family are at Pittsboro, N. C.; Mrs. Thomas L. Johnston is at Greensboro, and Mrs. B. M. Fewell is at Asheville, N. C. These old grass widowers are having a good time, but to say so would seein to be a dodge to cause their wives to hasten home. Mr. E. B. ltock, manager of the Western Union Telegraph at this place, and his family are visiting friends and relatives at?Charlottesville, Ya. Notice was given some days ago that a meeting of the farmers of the eastern section of Catawba township would be held at Shiloh Church on Saturday last, for the purpose of organizing a Farmers' Club. As yet r iiavniinHion nl t h:i 11he cluh wasortranized. but have reason to believe that it was, as the farmers of that section are men of energy and ever ready and willing to do any good they can for their fellow men. These organizations can certainly do no harm, and may accomplish much good. Considerable cotton was sold in our market last week. Hal. Correspondence of the Yorkville Enquirer. NOT ALTOGETHER AS~RA1) AS THE WORST. King's Mountain*, X. C., July 12.?In last week's issue of the Exquikkk I tind an article written by "J. B." on the present outlook of our community. Indeed, the picture is dark enough, even when we view it from the very best standpoint, but when we take the very gloomiest side possible, as "J. B." has done, then the situation becomes perfectly awful. I notice that "J. B." followed the water courses in each of the different counties in which he has traveled, hunting out the worst possible localities he could and then falls to grieving over it. He is careful not to state anything about the possibilities and probabilities of the upland corn. I can assure you that almost all our farm- ; ers this season will make more wheat than I they can consume at nome; anu many mi them plenty of oats to feed their stock for j six months of the year. Oats and early [ sown wheat are good, and, while the wheat i is somewhat damaged by sprouting, it is by ! no means ruined. I would ask "J. B." how much small grain W. A. Mauney, W. j S. Mauney, L. M. Logan, O. C. Herndon, I and many other men of his community J will make. Our people have bought more j judiciously this year than for some time; 1 this year's crop prospect from the beginning naturally held them back. I think "J. B." has written just after a I big rain when he was as "blue" as ho could j be and thus has overdrawn his article, j Finally I will say to "J. B." he should not I be afraid of perishing, and I further recommend that he obtain a copy of Sam Jones, or some such book, and read it when it rains. z. \ X.OGAE. AFFAIRS | NEW ADVERTISEMENTS. Rev..Louis A. Johnson?Candidate for School Commissioner. J. Beatty Williams, Probate Judge?Citation? J. F. Wallace, C. C. C. Pis., ApplicantMrs. Jane E. P. Scoggins, deceased. Frew Brothers. Rock Hill, S. C.?They Must (Jo. Macon Medicine Company, Macon, (la.?A Fine Florida Tonic. JohnF. Speck?At Cost. J. W. Dobson?Columbus Buggies. John C. Kuykendal?A Better Feeling. Withers Adickes?We Continue to Receive New (Joods. UNTIL JANUARY 1, 1887. Wo will furnish the Enquirer from this date until January 1, 1887, for $1.10; or for one year to two names paid for at the same time, $4.00. Sinorle subscription $12.50 per annum. the public streets. [. In tUoabsencc of a municipal government of Yorkville, the County Commissioners have designated the incorporate limits of the town a highway district and appointed Mr. John R. Ashe superintendent of highways. His duty will he to have supervision of the streets and roads within the incorporate limits?a mile from tho Court House on each street or road leading from the town. CHURCH NOTICES. Methodist Episcopal?Rev. W. W. Daniel, Pastor. Services next Sunday at 10.30 A. M.p and 8.30 P. M. Sunday-school at 4.30 P. M. Services this evening at 8.30 P. M. Presbyterian?Rev. T. R. English, Pastor. Services next Sunday at 10.30 A. M. and 8.30 P. M. Sunday-school at 4.30 P. M. Prayer-meeting to-morrow evening at 8.30. Associate Reformed Presbyterian?Rev. J. C. Galloway, Pastor. Services next Sunday at 10.30 A. M. and 3 P.M. Sunday-school at 4 P. M. JiJipilSL?I\BV tj . 1'J, vuviuj^luu, jl <idlvsi k;vivices at Union next Sunday at 11 A. M., and in Yorkville at 8.30 P. M. Sunday-school at 4.30 P. M. Prayer-meeting this evening at 8.30. King's Mountain Mission?Rev. L. A. Johnson, Pastor. Services at Philadelphia at 11 A. M., and at Shannon's School House at 4 P. M. next Sunday. S/ PERSONAL MENTION. Wlrs^Sadie L. Mazyck, of Abbeville, is visiting t1u? family of Maj. Hart. V-Miss Mamie Dabney, of Rome, (la., is in Yorkville visiting Miss Hattie Lowrv. UMr. and Mrs. John E. Lowry, of Columbia, are in Yorkville, at Mrs. Lula Gardner's. U-"Mrs. Robert Witherspoon, of Sumter, S. C., is visiting her sister, Mrs. J. Ernest Lowry, of this place. ^yMrs. Mary B. Arinistead, of Charlotte, N. C'., is in Yorkville, visiting the family of Dr. J. Rufus Bratton. Mrs. Wm. E. Rose and her little daughter, Maggie, of Columbia, are in Yorkville at the Yorkville Hotel. ^Messrs. II. I McC'aw and J. F. Hart, Jr., of Yorkville, left on Friday last for Walworth's Phonographic College, New York. i^Dr. O. J. Hart, of Wadamalaw Island, Berke ley county, S. C., is in Yorkville, visiting his son, G. W. S. Hart, Esq. Miss Sallio Hardester, who has been in charge of Mr. W. C. Latimer's millinery store for the past two seasons, has returned to her home in Baltimore. Miss Willie C. Keeno, who has been in charge of the trimming and art department at Messrs. T. M. Dobson it Co's. millinery store for the past four years, has gone to her home in Baltimore where she will spend the summer. THE SESSIONS COURT. The last case heard on Tuesday evening, was that of the State vs. Thomas II. Allen, at the nrnsecntion of Elizabeth L. Bolin and others. On the convening of Court Wednesday morning, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty. In the case of the State vs. Joseph Thornburg, for retailing spirituous liquor without a license, and a similar case against Wm. J. Thornburg, Mr. Hell, of the defendants' counsel, moved for a change of venue, and read affidavits by the defendants to the effect that public feeling in York is so strong against them that they did not believe they could obtain a fair trial in the county. To these affidavits the Solicitor replied that the Thornburgs had been frequently tried in this county, for offences, and had been almost invariably acquitted, aa.4 if that was any evidence of fairness, he thought the affidavits of the defendants were groundless. The motion for change of venue was refused. At this point, attention was called to the fact that by reason of excusing jurors 011 account of sickness and other causes, there was a deficiency of live in the panel, when, on motion oftheSolicitor, it was ordered that five additional names be drawn. The following were drawn: James L. Moss, W. F. Adkins, J. E. Lowry, Isom Evans, colored, John Wagner, colored. The next case called was the State vs. Jack Stewart, a colored boy fourteen or fifteen years old, charging him with rape. Messrs. J. B. Bell and John E. Mason appeared for the defence. Verdict, not guilty. The case of the State vs. Win. Jordon was continued. In the case of the State vs. Joseph Thornburg, for carrying concealed weapon, the defendant pleaded guilty. In the case of the State vs. the same, for retailing spirituous liquor without a license, the defendant pleaded guilt}'. At the afternoon session the case of the State vs. Daniel A. James for the murder of Anthony Blalock, colored, in the town of Yorkville, was called. The indictment charged that deceased came to his death on the 10th of April, 188(5, from the effects of a pistol or gunshot wound inflicted upon his person by Daniel A. James, on tho evening of April 3rd, 188(5. J. F. Hart appeared for the defence. The following jury was empaneled : E. A. Crawford, foreman; W. L. Goforth, John L.J Rainey, W. T. Smith, G. W. Foster, John JHunter, J. F. Moore, John C. Jackson, T. P* j Giles, J. E. Gettys, R. M. Steele, M. Whitt. | TKSTIMOXY FOR TICK STATE. Dr. W. G. White, sworn: I am a practicing physician, residing in Yorkville. I knew Anthony Blalock, who also lived in Yorkville, and is now dead. I visited him between 8 and 0 o'clock in the evening, on the 3rd of last April, and found him wounded by a pistol or gunshot wound, the ball having penetrated the breast bone, about the medium line and going downward through the left lung. He lived until the 10th of the month. Death was the result of the wound. Samuel B. Carroll, sworn : On tho 3rd of last April I was in Yorkville. I saw Anthony Blalock a little after dark on that evening. Mr. James and myself were walking up street, and coining to agate, a small colored boy came out at it about that time, when Mr. James said, "By 'i? T tViiu ,11011 " niwl niiknd tllfi boy if Anthony was in the house. Until then I did not know who lived in that house. The boy ran on by us. Mr. James called Anthony, and Anthony came down to the gate where we were. James asked Anthony, "lias Noah come back yet?" Anthony replied, No. I then stepped oil a few steps. James was standing on the outside of the gate; Anthony just inside. I suppose I stepped on ten or fifteen steps, and did not hear their conversation, further than I heard James say something about being too familiar with some woman, or something to that ellect. A short time after he spoke these words I heard a pistol lire three or four times. I then went back to where I left them and found James there. I did not then know that Anthony had been shot. I did not seo Anthony, and asked James what the shooting meant?had he shot Anthony, lie said lie reckoned he had. This was a little after dark, not later than 8 o'clock. I heard no loud talking between tlieni. I did not I try to hear what was said, and only heard the remark by James about being too familiar with some woman. When I passed on from where they were standing at the gate, they were not far apart. This occurred in York county, on Saturday evening the 3rd of last April. Cross-examined: T had been drinking some that day and felt the effects of it that evening. I ! had started home. Of their conversation I recollect only what I have here stated. James asked Anthony if Noah had come back yet. I ! did not try to hear what he said. When we | started in mat uireeuoii, i uu mj .t. James did not tell me where lie was going. The gate is a double gate and was standing open. I thought we were about to pass the house, and when lie said "Ry the way, I want to see this; man," I thought he spoke on impulse, lie did not say anything about wanting to see An- i thony until the little boy eamc to the gate. The j boy passed 011 and did not comeback while I was there. When James addressed the boy I do not know whether he said "your father" or I "Anthony." The house is about the width of the j street in front of the Court House from the gate, off from the pavement. I moved off from them, ten or fifteen steps. I heard no angry words be- I twoen them. The words about the woman were j not in an angry tone. His tone was as usual, j but I could not hear all that was said. I was j nearer to them than they were to Anthony's I house. After the shooting, we went from the | place to the jail. We walked rapidly. James j seemed excited after the shooting, but evinced J no signs of anger. Redirect: I was not trying to hear what they were saying. James was not angry as wo went to Anthony's house. Robert Rlalock, sworn. This witness was a 1 little boy ami by suggestion of counsel was examined as to the nature of an oath, when the Court pronounced him competent to testify. He said: I am the son of Anthony Blaloek. I remember the night he was shot. I was in the i door and saw Mr. James and another man at the gate. I did not know the other man. Mr. James was standing by the gate, on the outside. The other man was not far from Mr. James. Mr. James asked me to tell my father to go out to him and I did so. He asked my father if he had anything to drink, and he told him he had not. He then asked if any of the bovs were at home. My father told him no, that Jsoah had gone to black's. He then said to my father, "You are too familiar with white women," My father a**Kuu, '>vuor uiiu 110 rojuiou "ion khuw I (1?(1 well," and as lie said that he tired four times. My father then started to the house. Only my cousin, John Crawford, was at the house at the time. Cross-examined: I did not see Mr. James when they first came up. As I passed out he asked me if my father was in. I went back to the house and told my father, and he then went to the gate. John Crawford was in the house, and also came out. The house is as far from the gate as to that window, (indicating n window of the courtroom.) I was in the door and heard the talk. Me and John Crawford were in the door together. There are trees between the gate and the house, and near the gate. The night was dark. I have never talked with anybody about this case. I was a witness at the inquest. John Crawford, sworn: This witness, another little boy, was also put to the test as to competency, and the court permitted hini to testify, lie said: I was at Anthony Blalock's house when he was shot. Mr. James shot him. Mr. James called him up to the gate a minute. When Anthony went up, Mr. James asked him if the boys had come home, and if he knew where he could get anything. Ho then said to Anthony, "You are too d?d familiar with white women." Antlionv said he was not. and asked, who. Mr. James replied, "you know well enough." It was some time after he said this before the pistol tired. Cross-examined: From the gate to Anthony's door is as far as from here to the Court House door. I did not see the pistol. J. M. Caldwell, sworn : I am the Coroner of York county. I held the inquest in this case and was at the house of the deceased. The house is about twenty steps from the gate. Miss Lou. C. Massey, sworn: I Knew Anthony Hlaloek. He cut wood for me in the fore part "of the day on which he was shot. Mr. James was at mv house that afternoon. He did not ask for any person, and I do not know why he came to my house. I had asked him to stay away. That evening I asked him to leave me, as I was busy with my work. He asked me nothing about Anthony Hlaloek. The State rested. TESTIMONY FOK TUK DEFENCE. John A. Darwin, sworn : Mr. James lived with me. He usually stayed at the house of nights. During the week of the shooting he was not at home any night, and I don't think he took a meal there that week. I don't remember when I last saw him before the following morning in the jail. He drinks. When he is away I do not i ir? IVIIUW LlJilU lit; in UIU11WII?* ilU IIU?C1 I.UUIUO home drunk. I have been to Anthony Blalock's house. It is ninety feet from the gate to the door. I measured the distance by stepping. H. W. Hope, sworn: I know the defefidant. He lives near me, on the adjoining lot with my mother-in-law. He has been in the habit of drinking some. I have seen him under the influence of liquor, and have reason to believ" he would get on sprees. He did not come about the house when he was drinking. After an absence of three or four days he would come home. I have noticed during the winter when he would come homo that lie was sick and seemed dejected. In two or three days' time he would be cheerful again. He woultl take medicine, and I think he consulted a physician. ; 1 . * r 1.1 ?i u ivTOSs-exaiiiiiieu : nitw uuiugeiuvcf uis shjivness or dejection in two or three days. His mind would seem to be disturbed. Ho. was not jovial, but would be crabbed. I was never with him when he was drinking. When he was under the influence of liquor he was in good humor. Linwood Owen, sworn : I know Mr. James, and was with him a good deal the past winter. He drank a good deal, and was under the influence of liquor some times. I saw him once or twice the week of the shooting. He was drinking. I think I saw him on Thursday or Friday before the shooting. I can't say that ho was drinking more than usual that week. He seemed full of whisky. Cross-examined: When I saw him that week he was under the influence of whisky.. Thomas McFarland, sworn: I live a mile below town. I have known Daniel A. James seven or eight years. I do not know his habits about drinking, but I have seen him when I thought ho was not right some way. I saw him in this condition about a month before the shooting. Cross-examined: On the occasion I last spoke of I do not think he was drinking. It. E. O'Farrell, sworn : I have known Daniel A. James about fifteen years. I am a constable, and have been holding that ofticc since last March. I am on duty within the incorporate limits of Yorkville, and was constable during last Court week. I saw James that week at difcrent times. I saw him under the influence of liquor during the week. On the evening of the shooting I saw him, about a quarter of 8, near Mrs. J. B. Smith's, lie and Sam Carroll and Ike Wright were together. I heard some one hallowing where these three were standing. I had never heard him hallowing on the street before. I did not notice his condition that night, and cannot say that he was drunk. Cross-examined: I do not know that it was he who halloed. He had been drinking. When I went up to them he was in a good humor. Alec Wright, colored, sworn : I know Daniel James. I saw him during the week just before Anthony Blalock was shot. I saw him on Wednesday or Thursday; met him near Mr. Dunn Colcock's. He was coming up the railroad cut and was drunk. I don't recollect that I saw him any other time that weeK. Cross-examined: When I saw him on the railroad he was by himself. I. T. Parish, sworn: I know Daniel James, and have seen him oil and on for a year or two. As to his liabits during that time, he drank a right smart of whiskv. I saw him the week of the shooting?on Thursday. lie and I were together that day. We went to the country?over the line?near Beamguard's. We went tor whisky. I think he got some. He had a two-gallon jug. He was drinking. T have no idea how many drinks we took. We did not have much going up, but took three or four drinks coming back. He did not tell me what was in his jug. I went for whisky and I suppose he did too. Heorgo R. Russell, sworn : I know Daniel A. James. I saw.him the week Anthony Blaloek was shot. I saw him on Monday. He was drinking. On Thursday he was also drinking. I saw him getting ready to go to the still house. On Saturday evening he seemed nervous and in a bad condition. His eyes were dilated ; he had an uneasy look, and showed nervousness of the hands. Coss-examined: I have been with him frequently after he hail been drinking, but never saw him so nervous as he was on the day of the shooting. I do not know that whisky would settle him. He was generally jovial. After two or three days of drinking he would get nervous. If he could have had whisky all the time he would not have been nervous. A. F. MoConnell, sworn: I saw Mr. James between 9.J0 and 11 o'clock on the morning of the shooting. I did not think he was drunk. He said he had been drinking and was very nervous. He said he was suffering for some whisky, and I procured a drink for him. He was very nervous. I did not notice any peculiarity about his face or eyes. I noticed his excessive nervousness. I have known liim since he was a boy ten or twelve years old. I have seen him before when he was in a nervous condition. "......... 'pi,? Affh/.f nf two or three V.1 Ua.TCt'AtUlillJLH A uu \yt?vv? W. . .. drinks would some times steady the nerves. R. L. Simmons, sworn: I have known Daniel James since 18U1. We were together for four years in tho same regiment. He served through the war and was slightly wounded in the head. Of late years he has been a habitual drinker, drinking to excess. I saw him during last Court week, and met him two or three times. He was drinking. I saw him last on Friday evening about sundown. He came up to me where I was sitting in my buggy, and from his actions then I thought he'had delirium tremens. His eyes were wild and ho acted very much like a man with delirium tremens. Cross-examined: I have soen three or four cases of delirium tremens. John X. O'Farrell, sworn: 1 saw Daniel James during the tirst week of Court, on Friday, tho day before tho shooting. I met him, and when within one hundred yards of him, noticed that he was staggering. Cross-examined : I saw no indications that he was cra'/. v. .Samuel Johnson,sworn: I am acquainted with Daniel James and saw him on Saturday morning of the shooting. I saw him on that day in J. \Y. Dobson's grocery store. I have known him for fourteen or fifteen years. When I saw him that morning, I do not think he was intoxicated ; but he did not seem to be in his usual mind. He was downcast and dejected. R. II. tilenn, Sheritf, sworn: I remember Daniel James delivering himself after tho shootingof Anthony Iilalock. There was no warrant for him until'after the Coroner's inquest. He was in jail a week before I received a commitment from the Coroner. When he delivered himself I can't say whether he was drunk or not. There was something wrong about liiin. lie seemed like a man who had been drunk and was getting over it. His mind was wavering and he was very nervous. He could not hold a tin cup the next morning. On Monday after the shooting I noticed a peculiar discoloration of the skin ; it looked greenish, and his lips were ashy-green. Cross-examined. He appeared to know what he wasdoing when lie deliverod himself up. Ho said he had shot a man and expected he had killed him. Joseph W. Neil, sworn : I hoard R. L. Simmons' testimony. I saw Mr. James about the same time to which Mr. Simmons alluded. James came up to near me about the same time, and I thought lie had a peculiar expression at the time. I thought he had a grudge against me, and for that reason I did not keep my eyes oil' him, as I thought his peculiar expression might mean mischief. His eyes had a peculiar look, and the general expression was peculiar. He 1 went from where I was to Mr. Simmons' buggy, j Henry Williams, sworn : I saw Daniel James j just after dark on the evening of the shooting. ; . I met him just this (south)side of the ExyriHKit ofliee. He and Sam Carroll were together. | 1 James spoke in a singular manner to me, and j from his actions I did not think he was in his , right mind?judging by the past. I have known him since 1850. On oneoccasion last Fall I spoke to him and he made no reply. I met him in the ( road, and spoke to him. lie made no reply; but on coming up closer to me ho stopped and i then struck out through the woods. I thought his conduct was peculiar. t Cross-examined: I cannot say that he knew ! what he was doing. John C. Dickson, sworn: I knew Anthony f lllalock. Liquor was sold at his house. I c bought from him a time or two. ? (J. J. Hoke, sworn: Anthony once brought some hrandv to inv house, which I boucht from him. JIo said lie got it from Noah. 1 John iS. Ward, sworn: I was in the jail when Daniel James delivered himself. I saw him j that night. His condition was nervous and he ( seemed outdone. A party ol us were playing cards and we invited him to join in the game; . hut he was too nervous to play. I talked with ] him after he went to his room. " He did not sleep < that night. I saw him walking in the passage ] between the rooms, and afterwards saw him ( sitting up in his bed. Ho did not eat. The prisoners convicted that term of Court left that week for Columbia. I am in jail as a United 1 States prisoner for selling liquor. I asked him < that night why he was there, and he told me he came for protection; that there was a crowd af- ; tor him and he did not know who they were. His face was of a bad color, the skin greenish yellow, and his eyes red for several days. 1 Jos. F. Wallace^ sworn : I have known Daniel A. James for twenty years. His reputation j is that of a peaceable man, not vicious. I do . not know of his ever being in a difficulty. R. H. Glenn, recalled: T have known Daniel James twenty-five years. His disposition is peaceable. I have never known him in any difficulty. . A. Springs Withers, sworn: I met Daniel James on the night of the shooting; just after , supper, about half past seven o'clock. Ho and Sam Carroll were together, near Mrs. McCaw's ' residence. From his conduct towards me, I thought there was something peculiar about ' him. I spoke to him as I usually do on meeting him. But I failed to attract his attention. Dr. .1. Ktifus Uratton, sworn: i am a practicing physician. Counsel for defence then propounded a hypothetical case, describing the condition of the defendant, as testified by the witnesses who had preceded Dr. Bratton, when the | Doctor who did not hear any of the testimony, having just arrived home on the train and come direct from the depot to the Court House, answered that if such be the proven history of his case, the man was not in a sane mental condi- i tion. Ho was evidently alHicted with delirium, which frequently occurs without tremens. It does not follow that tremens should accompany delirium. Stimulants are necessary to relieve the nervous condition of the person so affected. Cross-examined: Habitual drinkers are more liable to delirium from suddenly stopping. The , described appearance would indicate a derangement of the nervous system. Two or three drinks just previous to the shooting would not have relieved his condition. To have the proper effect, would require three hours at least. , Had he taken several drinks it is probable it would have relieved the delirium. Re-direct; One drink at 11, nine hours previous, would have no effect. Two more drinks, from 11 to dark, would not relieve the delirium. The stimulant is necessary to drive the blood to the brain. Eliza Wilson, colored, sworn: I was summoned as a witness for the State. I saw Mr. James on the evening of the shooting. He spoke to Anthonv in a friendly manner, hal- I lowing to him, "llowd'you do, Bla?" and Anthony replied in a friendly manner, "How d'you | do, Mr. James?" They appeared to bo perfectly friendly. . , Cross-examined: I did not think there was anything wrong about Mr. James. Defence closed. THE STATE IX REPLY. Samuel B. Carroll, recalled: I was drinking some myself that day and noticed nothing peculiar about Mr. James. He and I took a drink j together about dark. Cross-examined: We had but a small quantity, , which we divided, each one taking a small drink. We were on the lookout for some when j we walked up the street. , The defence closed, and after argument by j Major Hart for the defendant, in a short but analytical review of the testimony and an eloquent ! appeal in his behalf, and argument by the Solicitor, in which the sido of the State was presented j succinctly and analytically, his Honor charged i the jury, carefully explaining the law as it applies to the case as presented by the testimony, ; and at half past 7 P. M., the jury retired. Just two hours later they returned a verdict of "guilty of manslaughter with a recommendation for i mercy of the Court." 1 On Thursday morning the case was called of j the State vs. Win. Casey, Robert Brooks, Andrew Xecly and Robert Barnett, all colored, and charged with gambling. A nolle prosequi was' i entered as to Robert Barnett. Andrew Xeely and Robert Brooks pleaded guilty. Wm. Casey 1 had not been arrested, and as to him the case was , continued and transferred to the Contingent docket. The case of the State vs. James Miskelly, col- 1 oral, charged with the murder of Andy Johnson, colored, near Clover, in this county, on Fri- ( day the 2nd instant, was called. Messrs. J. C. Chambers and John E. Mason appeared for the defendant and announced themselves ready. ; The following jury was empaneled : A. E. Smith, Foreman; John L. Rainey, J. E. Gettys, J. F. Moore, E. A. Crawford, G. W Foster, F. P. Giles, John J. Roach, C. C. Webber, R. M. 1 Steele, J. F. Isom, R. H. C'ornwell. The killing was not denied. The quarrel which resulted in the death of Andy Johnson had its origin several days before, in an aecu- i sation made by him that Jim Miskelly's wife 1 had stolen some cabbage plants from him. On the fatal Friday evening the two men met in ( the public roau aoouc uan wny uisiaia uetwccu , the residences of Mr. ft. P. Boyd and Mr. W. < R. Prison, Andy riding a mule with a bag of 1 corn, on his way to Armstrong's mill. The j quarrel was renewed and ended in the death , of Andy, he having received three severe stabs, ] one in the breast, one in the arm and one | in the left side. The theory of the defence was 1 that the blows were inflicted in self defence; J that both the parties were on the ground when j the fight commenced, Andy having jumped off ] his mule and struck Jim with a stick, which < was produced on the trial. They then came to holts and both fell, Jim under Andy. While Andy was beating Jim, and pressing him to the ( ground with one hand on his throat, Jim con- < tended that he drew his knife and opened it * with one hand and his teeth, and inflicted the j wounds. On the other hand it was proved by Mrs. M. W. McCarter, who was in Mr. Prison's yard, some distance away and witnessed the difficulty, that in the encounter the men stood on the ground face to face, and while they were in this position she saw Jim strike Andy. Circumstantial evidence was introduced, such as spots of blood 011 Jim's shirt sleeve and back, and on the bag of corn, to disprove his state- \ ments, and for the defence a large number of j witnesses were examined. The defence was J ably conducted by Messrs. Chambers and Mason, j Mr. Mason on this occasion making his maiden i effort at tlio bar. The jury returned a verdict of guilty of manslaughter. j The next case was that of the State vs. June 1 Campbell, charged with the murder of Edward I McClean, on the premises of Mr. George L. Rid- f die, at Zeno, in this county, on Tuesday the f 6th instant. The facts in this case are as follows: ( Roth men were in the employment of Mr. Rid- ^ die. On Monday evening Edward returned to * the house he occupied on the premises and put ^ a clean shirt on the bed. That night June went in and slept on the bed, not knowing the 1 shirt was on it, and rumpled the garment. ^ Tuesday morning Edward discovered that his shirt was rumpled and soiled, and a violent quarrel ensued. Mr. R. R. Riddle came up ^ during the quarrel and put a stop to it by assign- ^ ing the men to the work he had planned for each to do that day. lie directed June to hoe cotton p in a new ground field that day, and as the fc ground was rough he suggested to him to put t on an old pair of shoes to protect his feet, telling ? him where he could find an old pair in the mill, r June went to the mill and brought the shoes t up to the door of the kitchen and sat down t: in the door to trim off some ragged edges of the { leather, having borrowed a knife from Mr. Rid- i die for that purpose. While thus engaged, Ed, C who was in the kitchen, addressed June and s said, "The next time you lie on niv clothes I ? will not ask you why you did it." June said, * "Why don't you do something about it now?" s and as Ed turned from the window of the kitchen 1 June jumped up and plunged the knife in Ed's ? breast, penetrating the heart, and death resulted j in fifteen minutes. June was committed to jail that day by Trial Justice Perry Ferguson, and 011 Wednesday the grand jury returned a true a bill on the indictment for murder. On Wcdnes- ij day afternoon he was arraigned for trial, and J, Messrs. J. B. Da vies and I). E. Finley were as- n signed by tho Court to conduct the defence. On f Thursday afternoon, when the case was called i for trial, defendant pleaded guilty of manslaugh- li tor, which plea the solicitor consented to accept, o The whole day Friday was consumed in the tl tearing of the case of the State vs. James Clark, "rank Clark, Minerva Clark and Mary Clark, or forcible entry and detainer. Prosecutor, W. {. Lowry. Major Hart appeared for the defence. Verdict, guilty as to Minerva Clark ; not fuilty as to the other defendants. Motion for a tew trial granted. The following are the proceedings of Saturlay: State vs. Wm. J. Thornbiirg; retailing spiritious liquors without license. Pleaded guilty. State vs. Win. J. Thornburg: carrying concealed pistol. Pleaded guilty. State vs. Win. J. Thornburg; resisting an )fhcer. Continued, and bail granted in a bond >f &">00. In these cases tiie defendant was rep esented by Wilson iV Wilson and Mr. Hell. The Court then pronounced sentences in the ollowing order: Andrew Neely and Robert Rrooks, colored, rambling: ininrisonment in the county jail for >ne month, or to pay a tine of ?20. W. J. Thornburg, carrying a concealed pistol; mprisonment in the county jail for one month, n-to pay a lino of ?20. For retailing without a iconse; imprisonment in the county jail for ;hree months, or to pay a line of ?100. Joseph Thornburg, carrying a concealed pistol; imprisonment in the county jail for one month, ir to pay a fine of ?20. For retailing liquor without a license; imprisonment in the county jn.il for three months, or to pay a fine of ?100. Defendant paid the fines in both cases and was discharged. Isaac Ingram, colored, assault and battery; imprisonment in the county jail for three months. Wm. O'Leary, colored, assault and. battery with intent to kill; penitentiary for one year. Simon Fewell and John Fewell, colored, assault and battery with intent to kill; Simon Fewell imprisonment in the penitentiary for one year ; John Fewell, imprisonment in the penitentiary for six months. Jerry Powell, colored, house-breaking and larceny; penitentiary for six months. Mack Parker, colored, larceny; penitentiary for six months. * James Miskelly, colored, manslaughter; penitentiary for five years. June Campbell, colored, manslaughter; penitentiary for four years. Daniel A. James, manslaughter; penitentiary for three years. A number of appeals from trial justices' courts were then disposed of, and at 11 A. M., the Sessions Court was adjourned sine die, and the Court of Common Pleas opened. In this Court a number of causes were heard, and in the afternoon the Court adjourned until 9 A. M., Monday, when after hearing some causes on the Calendars and granting motions, at 11 A. M., the Court was adjourned sine die. The above prisoners sentenced to the penitentiary were conveyed to that institution on Monday in charge of special deputy Darwin. In our report last week, of the case ofthe.State vs. Frederick Laton, for carrying a concealed weapon, we incorrectly stated that the defendant was represented by Hart it Hart, when we should have said Wilson it Wilson. PRESENTMENT BY THE GRAND JURY. The following is the final presentment of the grand jury, read in the Court of Sessions on Wednesday last, immediately after which the grand jury was discharged: To 1lis Honor, T. B. Fraskr, Presiding Judge: The grand jury would respectfully submit the following to the Court: 1st. That the Act of the General Assembly which requires'personal service upon jurors by the Sheriff, be so amended that the official pub lication of the list of jurors drawn, in the county paper, and notice through the mails by the Sherilf, be a legal summons. 2nd. That the Act or Acts requiring the publication of the annual reports of the County Commissioners, County Treasurer and School Commissioner be. repealed, and the County Treasurer be required to publish quarterly reports, itemized, of his receipts and disbursements. 3rd. That the County Commissioners be required to let the contracts for printing to the lowest bidder. 4th. That the Act of the General Assemby granting power to the County Commissioners To supply the outside poor be repealed. We recommend the supervisors of public roads, as soon as practicable, to have the rojfds put in good condition. Crimes of every class have been committed, and crime is fearfully on the increase, not only in this county, but throughout the State, filling the prisons with criminals and thereby increasing the expenses of the county. It m&y be proper here to look into the causes and suggest a remedy. Article IV., Section 426 of the Constitution* of this State reads as follows: Judges shall not charge juries in respect to matters of fact, but may state the testimony and declare the law." The above section muzzles the Judges and leaves the decisions fully in the hands of the juries, who are oftentimes incompetent, from ignorance, .to apply the law to the facts, and hence the Judiclary of South Carolina, who in ante bellu>n days were the safeguards and strong bulwarks of the citizen, are now muzzled, and hence criminal trials are often times a mockery of justice. Also, considering the twenty challenges of the prisoners and only two of the State, and hence the carnival of blood in our county and State, which has stained the honored name of South Carolina with this relic of barbarism. We appeal to the people to have this constitutional defect repealed, ere retributive justice, like an avenging Nemesis, will arise and strike down the murderer, and stand as a strong bulwark of protection for the innocent, in lieu of defective law. A committee of our body, appointed at the last term of tho Court, and consisting of W. H. Stewart, chairman, B. J. Gold and R. M. Plaxco, to examine the records of the county offices would respectfully submit a partial report: "Tho offices of the County Commissioners, County Treasurer, County Auditor, Probate Judge and the Clerk of the Court, have been examined. The others will be at or before the next meeting of the grand jury. We report with pleasure that these officers ha've been faithful in the discharge of their duties. Their records are neatly kept, and their disbursements are accompanied with proper vouchers. The books and papers of the Probate Judge's office arc properly md neatly kept, and the Probate Judge can, in i minute's time, lay his hand on any paper trailed for. We find that 452 county railroad bonds have been retired and properly canceled by the Commissioners and filed with the Clerk if the Court, thus leaving outstanding 548 bonds. " We find that the deficiency in our county financ?s at present has arisen from tho action of the Legislature in cutting off one-half mill from the jsual levy of three mills, thus reducing the - ? 7IWI in nhmif. flip JUUIIljr imuio ?wuv - imount of deficiency; also, the postponement of ,ho May collection of taxes, deprives the couny, at present, of something over 000. We find >ur county expenses increasing." All of which is respectfully submitted. J. T. Lowry, Foreman. Correspondence of the Yorkville Enquirer. LETTER FROM FORT MILL. Fort Mill, July 12.?Sickness has some,vhat abated here; but the weather has coninued unfavorable to farmers. The lowands are still very wet, and it is now too ate to plant corn with the expectation of my return, save a crop of roasting ears, riic river has been again on the rampage. Hie shocks of small grain standing in the ields look like so many verdant little nounds dotting the landscape. Very few armers have succeeded in saving wheat fit or family use, and the yield is very small. Cotton seems to .be doing better as the veather gets warmer, but it is not well ruited. Yesterday was very hot, and swelering humanity sought the shade wherevsr a faint breeze stirred the foliage. A few nore such days will make a great and favorable change in the outlook for a cotton xop, but the precious plant cannot withtand much of a drought just now. There s no telling what outcome there maybe developed in this crop in the next two months, >ut the prospect now is gloomy. There has been some talk lately of reorganizing the Farmers' Club at Fort Mill; nit the peopleare so busy, or so discouraged, hat the project seems to have fallen through, luch organizations, if properly maintained, night prove of great benefit to our country ; iut the old saw, "What is every body's busiicss is nobody's business," seems to be eslecially true in respect to these matters. It s to be hoped that our farmers will pull out if the old ruts and beat a new path more uitable to their operations under present ircuinstances. As all are dependent on the armer for a supply of food, so all of us liould be interested in his welfare, and none nore than.themselves; but the listless, apthetic modes, born of the old order of flings, are hard to lay aside ; indeed, there s such a thing as being too conservative ; nd our farmers are afllicted with that ailnent, in such an aggravated form, that it mounts to an inactivity which is anything ?ut masterly. The lazy club were so exlausted by their extraordinary exertions in noving the old shop and building the new ence that a dissolution was threatened ; but t is gradually recovering, and will doubtess be able to be out in a few days. Some f the officers were very much overcome, nd their apparent defection extended to ^ f